International outpouring of support for Cork boy with no eyes

A baby boy who was born 6 months ago without eyes is receiving an enormous amount of international support for his condition.

Six-month-old Jacob Nowak is the son of Polish parents Mariuz and Wiola Nowak, and the family now reside in County Cork.

The baby boy has been diagnosed with a rare conditions known as anophthalmus and he must have prosthetic eyes fitted every three months for six years to ensure his face fully develops.

The prosthetic fittings will cost over $400,000 dollars, but the family insists it must be done to reduce the baby's suffering.

The family has just returned from an important surgery in Germany. Jacob got an infection after the surgery, but he is expected to return to Ireland at the end of the week.

Corkonians have come out in force to support the family and have begun a series of charitable sales and events.

Cork-based jewelery designer Ann Murphy plans to auction some of her work over the Internet through her company AM Jewelery. Cotter Vending is a Cork based vending machine operator and they will donate 10 cent whenever any of their machines are used.

Cork based band The Project are recording the Labi Siffre classic “Something Inside So Strong” and donating the sales to Jacob.

There are more than 3,500 fans on Jacob’s Facebook page and there are two major charity events planned for the coming months.

Speaking from Germany, Jacob’s father, Mariusz said "We are completely overwhelmed by the love and support for our child. My wife Wiola and I are so, so grateful to everyone. Thank you all so very much."